Over the coming days, all five continents will come alive with competition, as judoka from around the world step onto the tatami in pursuit of pride, titles and recognition at the highest regional level.
The action begins on Thursday 16th April, as Europe and Asia set the tone. The European Judo Championships Tbilisi 2026 will unfold in Georgia, while Asia’s finest will gather in China, for the Asian Judo Championships Ordos 2026.
Just two days later, on 18th April, the Pan-American region takes over as athletes head to Panama City, Panama, for the Pan-American Judo Championships 2026. The momentum continues in Oceania, where Melbourne, Australia will host its continental championships on 19th April. This year’s edition returns to a format exclusively dedicated to Oceania’s athletes, following previous editions held jointly with Pan-America.
Finally, Africa will bring this global celebration to a close, as Kenya hosts the African Judo Championships Nairobi 2026 from 24th to 26th April.
These championships hold immense significance for judoka everywhere. To become a continental champion is to reach a defining milestone, a moment that reflects years of dedication, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to excellence.
The scale of participation speaks for itself: more than 1,100 athletes from 119 nations will compete across the five continents, each with their own story, ambition and dream.
Beyond the medals, these events embody the spirit of judo; unity, respect and the shared pursuit of progress. They offer a stage where emerging talents announce themselves and established champions reaffirm their status.
Fans around the world will be able to follow all the action and stories as they unfold through the respective continental unions and on JudoTV. As the global judo family comes together across continents, one thing is certain: the journey towards greatness never pauses, it simply takes on new forms.